Graham Potter says Saturday’s nervy win over Leeds gives Chelsea “something to build on”.
The Blues boss saw his side emerge with three points thanks to Wesley Fofana’s second-half header at Stamford Bridge.
The goal was Chelsea’s first in over 400 minutes and offered some slight reprieve to Potter, who has increasingly come under pressure after a run of just one win in 11 matches.
Still, there were nervy moments throughout the game, particularly late on as Chelsea limped over the finish line.
Georgino Rutter could well have levelled the scores not long after Fofana’s goal but goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga was able to make the save thanks to a fortunate deflection off Kalidou Koulibaly.
"It is [massive],” said Potter.
“Delighted for the players and supporters. We’ve had to suffer. It’s been a challenging period. I thought we played well in the first half and attacked well.
“We were a team who had something to lose so it was great character from the players, they cared and showed togetherness in the team. It gives us something to build on.
"People care. Players want to win and supporters want us to do well. 1-0 in the Premier League, anything can happen, when you consider the run we’re on, it’s not surprising [there were nerves].
“The players fought for the win and it allows us to keep moving forward.”
Chelsea next host Borussia Dortmund, looking to reverse a 1-0 deficit in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday.
Of the game, Potter said: “We just have to focus on the game. You can’t control what the noise is outside. It’s a huge game for us [on Tuesday] and a huge opportunity. We have to fight for it.
"Every game is important. It’s a confidence boost and a morale boost. We have a massive game on Tuesday night."
